Letter: Letter misses point about Kavanaugh

Presumption of guilt is not the issue here.

Editor:

As I read "Kavanaugh innocent until proved otherwise" (Reading Eagle, Oct. 3), I found it surprising that the support for Judge Brett Kavanaugh was not backed up with any judicial rulings, decisions or opinions written by him to warrant the writer's support. The focus was on guilt versus innocence and disgust in the process. This has been the biggest Republican talking point, deflecting facts with a fear of presumption of guilt over innocence.

First, the presumption of innocence is not even relevant. He is not in a courtroom before a judge and jury. He is not facing jail time or other criminal punishment by law. He chose to accept a nomination to the Supreme Court. We do not owe him a smooth, unquestioned path to confirmation. We should hold any nominee for this position to the highest possible standards to protect the integrity of the court. His character matters and was in question before Dr. Christine Blasey Ford's accusations came to light.

His elite background does not entitle him to confirmation. The Federalist Society does not appoint our judges. His judicial and political record are troubling on issues of voting rights, workers' rights, racial and gender justice, women's rights, health care, environmental protections and the rights of people with disabilities.

His own words have proved him unable to remain impartial and free from political bias, and his temperament is unbecoming of any judge. I do not support him based on his record, and the rush to confirmation should concern everybody.